$675 Stimulus Check – Eligibility Requirements, Deadlines, and Application Process

Montana homeowners who paid property taxes in 2023 may be eligible for a significant financial boost in the form of stimulus checks worth up to $675. This initiative provides an opportunity for homeowners to recover a portion of the property taxes they’ve already paid, offering some relief amid rising costs and financial pressures. Here’s a breakdown of the program, its eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

The Refund

The stimulus check program is designed to refund homeowners for property taxes paid in 2023. The maximum refund is capped at $675, or the total amount of property taxes paid, whichever is less. For example, if you paid $425 in property taxes, you’ll receive a refund for that exact amount. If your taxes were higher, say $1,200, you would still only receive the maximum refund of $675. Refunds will be issued via check—direct deposits are not an option—so it’s important to watch out for scams and rely only on communications from the Montana Department of Revenue.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the stimulus check, homeowners must meet specific criteria:

• Residence Requirement: Homeowners must have owned and lived in a property in Montana for at least seven months in 2023. Eligible properties include houses, apartments, and mobile homes, as long as they served as the homeowner’s primary residence.
• Property Tax Payment: Homeowners must have received a property tax bill and paid the property taxes on their primary residence. The refund applies only to the property taxes on the house and the first acre of land surrounding it.
• One Claim Per Household: Only one refund can be claimed per household, meaning multiple residents of the same property cannot each apply for a refund.
• Non-Eligible Properties: Certain properties are excluded from eligibility. For instance, properties owned by businesses or LLCs are ineligible, even if a member of the business resides there. Additionally, properties held in irrevocable trusts and renters are not eligible for this program.

These requirements ensure that the program benefits individual homeowners who have personally borne the cost of property taxes, rather than businesses or other entities.

Application Deadline

The application period for the 2023 property tax refunds opened on August 15, 2024, with the deadline to submit claims being October 1, 2024. If you missed this deadline, unfortunately, you won’t be able to claim the refund.

For those who submitted paper applications, expect processing times of up to 90 days, while online claims should be processed faster, usually within 30 days. The quickest and most efficient way to apply is through the online portal, but patience is still required as processing may take time.

When applying, you’ll need to provide detailed information, including your Social Security number and relevant geographical code. Be sure to double-check all the information you submit to avoid delays or rejections.

$675 Stimulus Check

The application process is relatively straightforward, but if you meet the criteria, it’s essential to act promptly. Make sure to gather all the required information, and ensure that your application is complete. While the window to apply for this year’s refund has closed, staying informed about potential future opportunities will keep you prepared.

Watch Out for Scams

As with any government-related financial assistance, it’s crucial to be cautious of scams. The Montana Department of Revenue is the only official source for information about these stimulus checks. Be wary of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or messages claiming to offer assistance with your application. Always verify through official channels, and if in doubt, consult the Department of Revenue’s website or speak to a trusted financial advisor.

Montana’s $675 property tax refund offers meaningful financial relief to homeowners who have paid property taxes in 2023. This program ensures that individuals who meet the eligibility requirements can recover part of their property tax expenses, providing a boost amid rising living costs. Although the deadline for 2024 has passed, staying informed about similar future programs could benefit Montana homeowners. Meanwhile, for those who applied on time, waiting for the processing of applications is all that remains before receiving this valuable refund.

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